Medications for Rheumatoid Arthritis

The information provided here is meant to give you a general idea about each of the medications listed below. Only the most general side effects are included. Ask your doctor if you need to take any special precautions. Use each of these medications only as recommended by your doctor and according to the instructions provided. If you have further questions about usage or side effects, contact your doctor.

There are a variety of medications available to treat the pain and inflammation of
rheumatoid arthritis
(RA). Many times, medications are used in combination to maximize their benefits.

Since RA is different in everyone, it may take some time to find the right combination of medications that give you the least number of side effects.

Over-the-counter Medications

Prescription Medications

Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

Common names include:

Naproxen

Ketoprofen

Ibuprofen

Indomethacin

Sulindac

Meclofenamate

Ketorolac

Piroxicam)

Diclofenac sodium

Although some NSAIDs are available as over-the-counter medications, you may still be given a prescription in order to obtain a higher dosage. NSAIDs help decrease inflammation, swelling, and joint pain.

Be sure to take NSAIDs with food to decrease the chance of stomach irritation.

Drinking alcoholic beverages or taking other NSAIDs, COX-2 inhibitors, aspirin, or steroids while you are already using an NSAID can increase your risk of side effects.

COX-2 inhibitors work in a way similar to NSAIDs, helping to decrease inflammation, swelling, and joint pain. The way the medications do this allows them to work without causing the same degree of stomach irritation. In particular, COX-2 inhibitors cause far fewer stomach ulcers than do NSAIDs.
There is an increased risk of heart attacks and strokes associated with these medications. Doctors generally reserve them for use in people who can't take traditional NSAIDs and who have no risk factors for heart disease.

Drinking alcoholic beverages or taking NSAIDs, aspirin, or steroids while you are using a COX-2 inhibitor can increase your risk of side effects.

Possible side effects include:

Stomach upset

Liver inflammation

Confusion

Severe allergic reaction, such as hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling around the eyes

These drugs are given in an effort to slow or halt the progression of RA. They are all immunosuppressive agents. Because RA is believed to be caused by an overactive immune system, it is hoped that calming the immune system’s activity will slow the progression of the disease.

These medications are given when other drugs haven’t worked. Etanercept, adalimumab, and anakinra are given by injection. Infliximab, orencia, and rituximab are given by IV infusions. They can help decrease the symptoms of RA. They may also increase your risk of contracting infections. You need to inform your healthcare provider that you are taking these medications before you get any immunizations. Also TNF-inhibitors can increase the risk of
Hodgkin’s
and
non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma
and other types of cancer in children and adolescents.

Before you start taking any of these medications, you will need a tuberculosis (TB) test to make sure you don't have a hidden case of tuberculosis. You will need to have your heart monitored while you take this medication. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you develop any of the following symptoms after receiving one of these medications:

Chest pain

Difficulty breathing

Fever and chills

Productive cough

Itching

Hives

Flushed face

Rashes

Confusion

Weakness

Injection site reactions

Over-the-counter Medications

Acetaminophen

Acetaminophen can be helpful in relieving some of the pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis. Do not take a larger dose than is recommended. Don't drink alcoholic beverages while you are taking acetaminophen.

Capsaicin Cream

Common brand name:
Zostrix

Capsaicin cream is rubbed on the skin of an affected joint to relieve the pain and inflammation of RA.

It is made using the active ingredient of hot chili peppers. Some people prefer to wear rubber gloves while applying the cream. If you do not, be sure to wash your hands very thoroughly with soap and water after using the cream. Be very careful not to get the cream near your eyes, as it will burn and sting. If you do get some in your eyes, flush them thoroughly with cool water.

Possible side effects include burning, stinging, or warm sensation when first applied to the skin.

Special Considerations

If you are taking medications, follow these general guidelines:

Take your medications as directed. Do not change the amount or the schedule.

Ask what side effects could occur. Discuss them with your doctor.

Talk to your doctor before you stop taking any prescription medication.

Plan ahead for refills if you need them.

Do not share your prescription medication with anyone.

Drugs can be dangerous when mixed. Talk to your doctor if you are taking more than one drug, including over-the-counter products and supplements.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.

Handout on health:
Rheumatoid arthritis.
National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases
website. Available at:
http://www.niams.nih.gov/Health%5FInfo/Rheumatic%5FDisease/default.asp. Updated August 2014. Accessed October 31, 2014.